By Atoyebi Nike
The Federal Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Polaris Capital Limited to launch a nationwide programme that will train, certify, and connect 100,000 construction artisans to job opportunities across Nigeria.
The partnership, sealed on September 2, 2025, through the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, introduces the National Artisan Skills Acquisition Programme (NASAP). The initiative aims to address labour shortages in the construction sector while improving housing quality and standards.
Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Shuaib Belgore, said NASAP is designed to modernize the construction workforce by creating employment, enhancing technical capacity, and ensuring inclusivity for women, youth, and people with disabilities.
The three-year scheme will be funded through federal allocations, private sector investment, and donor support. It will also feature a digital platform to connect trained artisans directly to jobs and provide verification services.
Chief Executive Officer of Polaris Capital, Kelvin Vihishima, said the programme would curb quackery in construction and make skilled labour readily available nationwide.
The ministry noted that the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to skills development, job creation, and sustainable urban development.
NASAP will roll out in phases: a 2025 pilot for 3,000 artisans, nationwide expansion in 2026, and the establishment of Regional Centres of Excellence in 2027. Training will cover high-demand trades such as bricklaying, plumbing, carpentry, welding, electrical work, painting, tiling, upholstery, and air conditioning.
